<br><a href=”https://www.prevention.com/beauty/hair/a45860977/hair-oiling-benefits/” target=”_blank”>Hair growth oils</a> and <a href=”https://www.prevention.com/beauty/hair/g39865543/best-hair-serum/” target=”_blank”>serums</a> can help <a href=”https://www.prevention.com/beauty/hair/a38164380/how-to-make-hair-thicker/” target=”_blank”>make hair look thicker</a> on the surface, but adding hair growth supplements to your daily intake can help the issue within. To address our concerns about hair vitamin safety and recommendations, we spoke to several dermatologists before putting together this list of best vitamins for hair growth. </p><p>“Hair growth supplements are helpful for anyone who is experiencing <a href=”https://www.prevention.com/beauty/a20450254/9-causes-of-hair-loss-and-thinning-hair/” target=”_blank”>hair loss</a>, <a href=”https://www.prevention.com/beauty/hair/10-best-products-for-thinning-hair/” target=”_blank”>hair thinning</a>, or for those who just want thicker or longer hair,” says <a href=”http://www.drdendyengelman.com/” target=”_blank”>Dendy Engelman, M.D.</a>, board-certified dermatologic surgeon.</p><p class=”body-tip”>Meet the Experts: <a href=”http://www.drdendyengelman.com/” target=”_blank”>Dendy Engelman, M.D.</a>, board-certified dermatologic surgeon in New York City; <a href=”https://www.advanceddermatologypc.com/doctors/suzanne-friedler/%20″ target=”_blank”>Suzanne Friedler, M.D.,</a> board-certified dermatologist with Advanced Dermatology PC and clinical instructor of dermatology at Mt. Sinai Medical Center in NYC; <a href=”https://www.drjaliman.com/” target=”_blank”>Debra Jaliman, M.D.</a>, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City and the author of<em> <a href=”https://www.amazon.com/dp/1250000955?” target=”_blank” rel=”nofollow”>Skin Rules</a></em>; and others.<br></p><p>Because causes for <a href=”https://www.prevention.com/beauty/hair/a45919873/how-much-hair-loss-is-normal/” target=”_blank”>hair loss</a> or hair thinning vary, it’s important to speak with a dermatologist to assess any changes in your hair, <a href=”http://www.zeichnerdermatology.com/” target=”_blank”>Joshua Zeichner, M.D.</a>, director of cosmetic and clinical research at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, explains. </p><p>“We know that certain conditions like nutritional or vitamin deficiencies are associated with thinning hair—for example, in anemia and <a href=”https://www.prevention.com/health/a35183225/vitamin-d-benefits/” target=”_blank”>vitamin D</a> deficiency, patients may notice hair loss,” Dr. Zeichner says. So be sure to check with your medical provider if you’re concerned about any underlying conditions that could be the cause behind your lackluster strands.<br></p><p>With our experts’ insights in mind, see the top vitamins for hair growth and thickness below, vetted by dermatologists and reviews.<br></p><blockquote class=”body-blockquote”><em>Dietary supplements are products intended to supplement the diet. They are not medicines and are not intended to treat, diagnose, mitigate, prevent, or cure diseases. Be cautious about taking dietary supplements if you are pregnant or nursing. Also, be careful about giving supplements to a child, unless recommended by their healthcare provider.</em></blockquote>”/>
1
Best Overall Vitamins for Hair Growth and Thickness
Hair Growth Nutraceutical
Now 20% Off
Pros
- Includes ashwagandha to help reduce stress
- Contains a variety of hair-growth vitamins in one pill
- No artificial additives
Cons
- Pricey
Dr. Engelman favors this supplement to target hair thinning. “This uses highly concentrated botanicals to address every stage of the growth cycle,” she says, such as vitamin E, ashwagandha (a type of herb), anti-inflammatory biocurcumin, and others. “It has excellent clinical studies to support its efficacy. I recommend it daily to my patients.”
One peer-reviewed study (which was funded by Nutrafol) published in the Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, found that women who said their hair was thinning reported improved growth and thickness after taking it for six months. The researchers also found an increase in hair density after three months.
What a reviewer says: “I started Nutrafol in January and by the middle of February, I had new growth sticking straight up about 1 to 2 inches long, and it has continued to grow. Barely any hair comes out now. Cheaper then seeing a dermatologist and works a lot faster.”
| Active Ingredients | Biotin, zinc, and vitamins A, D, and C |
|---|---|
| Form | Capsule |
| Serving Size | 4 capsules |
| Servings Per Container | 30 |
| Third-Party Tested | Yes |
2
Best Value Vitamins for Hair Growth and Thickness
Nature’s Bounty Biotin
Now 58% Off
Pros
- Helps the structure of Keratin
- Biotin promotes healthy hair, skin, and nails
- No odor, easy to swallow
Cons
- May be too much biotin for some
This B vitamin is an ingredient in many different hair supplements—for good reason. “Biotin is a water-soluble vitamin that supports the growth of hair, skin, and nails by helping to break down fats and carbohydrates,” says Dr. Engelman. Run low and you may notice your hair is weak, or you may start to lose it.
You can expect the vitamin to increase the speed of hair growth, but it won’t increase thickness, she says. However, it is far cheaper than other supplements, making it a good starting point. For one good biotin supplement, Debra Jaliman, M.D., a board-certified dermatologist in New York City and the author of Skin Rules, recommends Nature’s Bounty Biotin.
Reviewers like that the pills are easy to swallow and don’t give off any peculiar odor.
What a reviewer says: “After 30 days of use, my nails look really healthy and shiny (the most immediate change to be on the lookout for). As for my hair, I am seeing growth pieces in the places where I lost it. Note—this isn’t a miracle cure for clinical hair-loss, but it helps promote faster and stronger nail and hair regrowth.”
| Active Ingredients | Biotin |
|---|---|
| Form | Softgel |
| Serving Size | 1 softgel |
| Servings Per Container | 120 |
| Third-Party Tested | Yes |
3
Best Gummies for Hair Growth and Thickness
Vegamour GRO Biotin Gummies for Thinning Hair
Pros
- Vegan
- Pleasant strawberry flavor
- Also effective on nails
Cons
- Higher sugar content
If pills are not your thing, these vitamins from Vegamour come in a heart-shaped, strawberry-flavored gummy form. You only need one a day, and each gummy contains vitamins A, B, C, E, 6, and 12—all of which help to support natural production of keratin and collagen. The gummies are also vegan.
Reviewers like the pleasant taste, saying they’re easy to swallow. However, you’ll want to note that the vitamins contain added syrups and sugar—which isn’t always present in competitor vitamins.
What a reviewer says: “I just started my second jar, but I already started noticing some positive changes after just one week. My hair feels stronger and feels like it is growing in thicker. I also love the taste and packaging.”
| Active ingredients | Vitamins A, B, C, E, B12 |
|---|---|
| Form | Gummy |
| Serving Size | One gummy |
| Servings Per Container | 30 |
| Third-Party Tested | Not listed |
4
Best Vitamins for Hair Restoration and Growth
Hair Growth Supplements
Pros
- Contains vitamin C
- Good source of iron
- Includes biotin
Cons
- Not for those with allergies to fish or shellfish
Containing a marine complex, as well as biotin, zinc, vitamin C, iron, and horsetail extract, Viviscal “uses vitamins to extend the anagen (growth) phase of the hair growth cycle,” says Dr. Engelman. In a 2015 study published in Dermatology Research and Practice found that after 90 days, adult women taking Viviscal had an increase in hair volume and lost significantly fewer hairs after washing compared to a placebo.
What a reviewer says: “Since taking Viviscal hair growth supplements for the past six weeks, my hairline has filled in, and I have inch-long hair growing throughout my hair on the top and along the sides of my head.”
| Active Ingredients | Biotin, zinc, vitamin C, iron, niacin, and an AminoMar marine complex |
|---|---|
| Form | Pill |
| Serving Size | 2 pills |
| Servings Per Container | 30 |
| Third-Party Tested | N/A |
5
Best Tasting Vitamins for Hair Growth and Thickness
Vitafusion Multivitamin Plus Beauty
Pros
- Ingredients also benefit nails and skin
- Made with no artificial flavors or sweeteners
- Fruity flavor
Cons
- Tend to clump together, especially in warmer weather
Enriched with biotin, vitamins C and E, as well as other must-have nutrients like zinc and folate, these gummies not only claim to improve the look and growth of hair, but reviewers rave about the noticeable difference it makes in brittle nails, too. I’ve taken these gummies in the past and can attest to these claims, and I appreciate fruity flavor and how easy they are to take.
Plus, these “beauty” gummies also contain vitamin A (what retinol is derived from) to help contribute to healthy skin. A small 2023 study found that oral supplementation of vitamin A combined with topical retinol application showed greater skin improvement than topical application alone. However, more research is needed on vitamin A for hair growth to better understand its benefits.
What a reviewer says: “This stuff enhances my curl pattern and puts a stop to breakage and split ends and knots. I’ve noticed that my hair is thicker and a little longer, too.”
| Active Ingredients | Biotin, zinc, folate, and vitamins C and E |
|---|---|
| Form | Gummy |
| Serving Size | 2 gummies |
| Servings Per Container | 45 |
| Third-Party Tested | Yes |
6
Best Vegan Gummy Vitamins for Hair Growth
HUM Hair Strong Gummies
Pros
- Vegan
- High biotin content
- Also beneficial for nails and skin
Cons
- Not for those with a sensitive stomach
Biotin, zinc, B12, PABA, and folic acid are all packed into these adorable little chews. They’re vegan and free of synthetic colors and artificial sweeteners. The chews are clinically proven to result in improvements in hair growth. All you have to do is take two gummies a day and let the vitamins get to work.
Reviewers claim that the gummies really work to make their hair stronger, adding that they see less hair fallout when styling their hair. Reviewers also seem to agree that it takes some time to see results.
What a reviewer says: “These little hair gummies not only taste amazing but actually WORK when it comes to helping my hair grow and strengthen my strands!”
| Active ingredients | Biotin, zinc, B12, PABA, and folic acid |
|---|---|
| Form | Gummy |
| Serving Size | 2 gummies |
| Servings Per Container | 30 |
| Third-Party Tested | Yes |
7
Best Multivitamin for Hair Growth
Nature Made Multi for Her
Pros
- Inexpensive
- Boosts imune system
- Supports bone and muscle health
Cons
- Not specifically made to target hair growth
A good basic multivitamin can go a long way in encouraging hair growth, says Dr. Friedler. That’s because multis contain your mane needs: biotin, vitamins C and D, zinc, and iron. This one from Nature Made is well-priced, is USP-verified for safety, and is in a softgel form, making it easy to swallow.
What a reviewer says: “Lifesavers! It’s been about two months and my hair is definitely growing fuller and thicker, I feel less tired and fatigued (this I noticed within days), and overall my mood has been the best it’s been in months.”
| Active Ingredients | Vitamins C and D, Biotin, zinc, and iron |
|---|---|
| Form | Softgel |
| Serving Size | 1 softgel |
| Servings Per Container | 60 |
| Third-Party Tested | Yes |
8
Best B complex Vitamins for Hair Growth
Keranique KeraViatin Hair & Scalp Health Supplements
Now 48% Off
Pros
- Vitamins B1, B6, and B12 nourish the scalp
- Amino acids promote hair growth
- Softgels are easy to swallow
Cons
- Pricey
This supplement packs a range of B vitamins to help the body break down nutrients to nourish hair growth, plus zinc, antioxidant curcuminoids, and amino acids like L-cysteine. “Cystine (which is formed by two cysteine molecules) is an amino acid, which is a protein building block that helps to maintain the structure of proteins in the body—and is one of the most crucial amino acids for hair growth,” says Dr. Jaliman.
What a reviewer says: “After COVID, I was having problems with the health of my hair, and losing it too. This product has restored my hair’s thickness and gotten me back on track to healthy hair.”
| Active Ingredients | Biotin, cystine, riboflavin, curcumin, saw palmetto extract, and vitamins B1, B6, and B12 |
|---|---|
| Form | Softgel |
| Serving Size | 2 softgels |
| Servings Per Container | 30 |
| Third-Party Tested | Yes |
How to choose vitamins for hair growth
If you’ve ever tried to shop for a hair growth supplement, you know there are tons of bottles to wade through. “That’s why it’s best to read labels and check for ingredients we really want,” says Dr. Jaliman. Dietary supplements aren’t regulated the same way as drugs are by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, so it’s important to scan the ingredients carefully.
And, you should always talk to your doctor before taking one to ensure it won’t interact with any medications you’re taking. Below are some more tips to keep in mind when choosing the right vitamin for hair growth for you:
✔️ Find out if you have any nutritional deficiencies: Hair thinning and hair loss are typically caused by a deficiency of certain vitamins, iron, or biotin. Blood work can determine if you have any nutritional deficiencies, and your doctor can suggest dietary changes or recommend which vitamins you should be taking.
✔️ Get your hormone levels checked: Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is a health condition that can cause female patterned hair loss. If you have other symptoms pointing to PCOS, such as an irregular menstrual cycle, acne, hirsutism, or weight gain, make a visit to the gynecologist or an endocrinologist. They can diagnose you with PCOS and prescribe medications or vitamins to balance your hormone levels.
What ingredients to look for in vitamins for hair growth
Daily multivitamins are beneficial for general health and wellness purposes, but look closely at the active ingredients for vitamins or minerals that support healthy hair growth. Ife J. Rodney, M.D., founding director of Eternal Dermatology Aesthetics and professor of dermatology at Howard University and George Washington University, recommends looking for a vitamin for hair growth that contains the following ingredients:
✔️ Biotin (Vitamin B7): This is a water-soluble vitamin that helps with the production of keratin, which is a protein that makes up your hair, skin, and nails. “While it primarily helps with nail growth, there may be some overlap to hair growth,” Dr. Rodney says.
✔️Vitamin C: This vitamin helps with the production of collagen, a protein that can help strengthen skin at your hair roots, and, ultimately, keratin in the body. “Both are important for hair’s elasticity, strength, and luster,” says Dr. Rodney.
✔️ Zinc: This “helps to boost overall immunity,” Dr. Rodney says, which may be beneficial for hair growth. Studies show correlations between low levels of zinc and those with telogen effluvium and androgenetic alopecia (two common forms of hair loss).
✔️ Folic acid: Folic acid, or folate, is a type of B vitamin (a group of vitamins Dr. Engelman recommends as a whole for hair health) and a common ingredient found in hair growth vitamins. While more studies are needed, its importance for DNA synthesis and red blood cell formation suggests it may help promote hair growth.
✔️ Omega fatty acids: Dr. Engelman suggests looking for vitamins and supplements containing omega-3 fatty acids, commonly found in fish oil supplements. One study found that after taking omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, participants showed increased hair density.
What vitamin deficiency causes hair loss?
“We know that certain conditions like nutritional or vitamin deficiencies are associated with thinning hair—for example, in anemia and vitamin D deficiency, patients may notice hair loss,” Dr. Zeichner says. “So we always want to make sure if vitamin D and iron levels are where they should be.” Basically, if your health or vitamin intake isn’t where it should be, your body will focus on that and potentially shuttle hair-healthy vitamins away from your strands.
Are vitamins for hair growth safe?
“For most people, trying a hair growth supplement won’t hurt and it can help, so you can start at your first sign of hair thinning,” says Blair Murphy-Rose, M.D., F.A.A.D., board-certified cosmetic, medical, and surgical dermatologist at Laser & Skin Surgery Center of New York, but advises seeing a dermatologist to help make a diagnosis of the root of the problem contributing to your hair thinning.
Choose supplements that have been specifically tested for safety and efficacy to avoid any problems, recommends Vivian Bucay, M.D., F.A.A.D., board-certified dermatologist at Bucay Center for Dermatology and Aesthetics. “There are countless supplements touted for hair growth, but only a very few of the available formulations that contain a combination of vitamins and minerals have undergone rigorous testing to prove that they work,” Dr. Bucay says.
According to Mount Sinai Hospital, there are risks for having too much iron, calcium, vitamin D, and vitamin A, so it’s best to consult your doctor first and only take supplements if you have lower levels or a deficiency of a certain vitamin.
If you decide not to go the supplement route, there are plenty of foods for hair growth that you can add to your diet to benefit your tresses. Also, see our favorite hair growth shampoos and oils that you can easily add to your hair care regimen.
Why is my hair thinning?
Genetics play a large role in the thickness of hair and hair thinning is common as you age, but sudden or extreme hair loss can point to signs of an underlying health condition, hormonal imbalance, autoimmune conditions, or a nutritional deficiency.
“Androgenetic alopecia (a.k.a hormonal thinning) and telogen effluvium are two of the most common causes I see in my practice,” says Dr. Murphy-Rose. “Others include nutritional deficiencies like iron deficiency or vitamin D deficiency, underlying medical conditions like a thyroid disorder, and then there are many inflammatory skin conditions that can lead to hair loss.”
Beyond genetics and internal health conditions, hair thinning can also be caused by lifestyle practices. Heat damage from curling irons and straighteners can cause hair shedding, says Dr. Bucay. She adds that hairstyling practices such as chemical straightening or tight braiding can also contribute to hair thinning.
When to see a doctor for hair loss
If you try the supplement route, you’ll want to give it a little time to work. “If you are using at home supplements already and they are not helping after a month or so, it may be time to touch base with your dermatologist to make sure you are using the right products for your hair needs,” Dr. Zeichner says.
It’s best to see a doctor when the supplements aren’t helping, your hair loss began out of nowhere, or it feels like you’re shedding abnormal amounts of hair. “Sudden unexplained hair loss should prompt a visit to the dermatologist to rule out certain conditions such as alopecia areata (autoimmune) or even an autoimmune cause such as thyroid disease or systemic lupus,” Dr. Bucay says. “Once the cause of hair loss has been established, then a dermatologist can offer advice regarding prescription and nonprescription options for treatment.”
A doctor can also order a blood test to check for any underlying nutritional deficiencies or hormonal imbalances, which can help you decide a more direct treatment plan.
How we chose the best vitamins for hair growth
We tested the Vitafusion Multivitamin Plus Beauty vitamins. For the rest of the list, we took recommendations from professionals in the medical field. This includes: Vivian Bucay, M.D., F.A.A.D., board-certified dermatologist at Bucay Center for Dermatology and Aesthetics; Dendy Engelman, M.D., board-certified dermatologic surgeon in New York City; Suzanne Friedler, M.D., board-certified dermatologist with Advanced Dermatology PC and clinical instructor of dermatology at Mt. Sinai Medical Center in NYC; Debra Jaliman, M.D., a board-certified dermatologist in New York City and the author of Skin Rules; Blair Murphy-Rose, M.D., F.A.A.D., board-certified cosmetic, medical, and surgical dermatologist at Laser & Skin Surgery Center of New York; Ife J. Rodney, M.D., founding director of Eternal Dermatology Aesthetics and professor of dermatology at Howard University and George Washington University; and Joshua Zeichner, M.D., director of cosmetic and clinical research at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai.
With their insights, we additionally conducted our own research and sifted through online reviews, product descriptions, and product ingredients, to pick the best options.
Why trust us
For more than 70 years, Prevention has been a leading provider of trustworthy health information, empowering readers with practical strategies to improve their physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Our editors interview medical experts to help guide our health-focused product selections. Additionally, Prevention also examines hundreds of reviews—and often conducts personal testing done by our staff—to help you make informed decisions.
Madeleine, Prevention’s assistant editor, has a history with health writing from her experience as an editorial assistant at WebMD, and from her personal research at university. She graduated from the University of Michigan with a degree in biopsychology, cognition, and neuroscience—and she helps strategize for success across Prevention’s social media platforms.
Shanon is a writer and editor who specializes in best-of product roundups and deals. She has over six years of experience, including almost three years as a Good Housekeeping product and reviews editor, covering the best sales and products across home, appliances, health, beauty, parenting and more.
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